Kinetic log splitters are the rave of the moment when it comes to splitting wood.
And it’s not hard to see why — they pack double the speed of even the fastest hydraulic splitters on the market.
If you own a hydraulic splitter with as fast as 10-second cycle time, the average kinetic splitter would complete the task within 3 seconds. The only thing is, most top-quality models run through the wallet as fast as they split wood.
Nevertheless, it’s no surprise you want to make your tasks faster and easier, knowing it comes at a price. In the same coin, I’m no soothsayer, but it’s easy to predict you can’t wrap your head around the technical specs.
Well, all you need is a pointer to the best products on the market to make your decision a lot easier.
This review will be your compass to the best kinetic log splitters. A guide at the end explains why you should consider the fastest guys in town.
Godspeed!
The Best Kinetic Log Splitters Are:
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Powerking 42-Ton Gas Kinetic Log Splitter |  Top Pick |
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| 2. Sportsman Earth Series 10-Ton Gas Kinetic Log Splitter |  |
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| 3. Sportsman Earth Series 19-Ton Gas Kinetic Log Splitter |  |
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| 4. Powerking 34-Ton Kinetic Log Splitter |  |
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1. Powerking 42-Ton Gas Kinetic Log Splitter — Top Rated Kinetic Wood Splitter
The Powerking 42-ton is the ultimate beast of kinetic splitters. It hulking ram splits through wood with a bizarre 42-ton force. Plus, it comes equipped with several quality features
Specs
- 7HP – 208cc Kohler engine
- 450 RPM flywheel with 42-ton splitting force
- Max log height: 21″ Diameter: 23:
- Weighs 657 pounds
- Towable
- Includes a reversible/foldable hitch and front trolley wheel
What I Like About This Product
It isn’t called the ultimate beast for no reason. It would easily split mid-sized knotted woods without problem. As for even enormous seasoned woods, you only have to wait to admire the rate at which it slaughters them. No jokes.
Another thing I like about the splitter is the trolley-type tire in its front hitch. It makes it easy to change its position if the need arises, even if you aren’t towing.
What I Don’t Like About This Product
For a splitter with such enormous force, Powerking should know better than to use flimsy metal for its work table. It is very likely to bend on a bad day, but not in a way that it’d deter normal functioning.
The worst part is that parts of the splitter only have warranty coverage for three months. But three years on a sturdy engine, that’s unlikely to encounter any fault. Kudos Powerking.
Pros
- Makes quick work of large logs
- Easy to tow
- Pivot leg has a wheel for easy transport
Cons
- Auto brake system bugs down power occasionally
- Flimsy log cradle
Takeaway
This is the clear winner of the most powerful kinetic log splitter. If that’s your thing, then don’t hesitate to get one for intense wood splitting.
Overall Rating – 4.9/5
2. Sportsman Earth Series 10-Ton Gas Kinetic Log Splitter — Best Value for The Money
This Sportsman 10-ton kinetic splitter is one of the best affordable options you can find. It splits extremely fast (2-second) with its 15-pound flywheel force — equivalent to a 10-ton hydraulic unit. With its kinetic energy, it’s more than powerful enough for most homeowners.
Specs
- 7HP – 94cc OEM engine
- 2-second cycle time
- 7-inch steel wedge
- 10-ton splitting force
- Weighs 150 pounds
- Max log length: 20” Diameter: 14”
What I Like About This Product
For the price, it makes life a lot easier. Splitting all sorts of wood size and species with blazing speed. Be careful, though; it has a tough time splitting knotted wood.
What I Don’t Like About This Product
For a heavy-duty machine, the wheelbase is just too narrow. With such little axle spacing, it’s very likely to tip over during transportation.
Also, there are signs of cheap production in some parts. Some bearings easily break, and it’s not uncommon for some bolts to come loose. So, it requires extra care than you’d for a machine its size.
Pros
- Good bang for the buck
- Slices through wood almost instantly
- Works on log rounds much larger than its rating
- Automatic shutdown when low on oil
- Easy assembly
Cons
- Some cheaply made parts
- Narrow wheelbase
- Not towable
Takeaway
This 10-ton kinetic splitter is an excellent option for anyone on a tight budget and still needs to split woods at blazing speed. Steer clear of knotted logs, and you won’t be disappointed.
Overall Rating – 4.7/5
3. Sportsman Earth Series 19-Ton Gas Kinetic Log Splitter — Powerful Budget Option
This is another affordable model in Sportsman’s Earth Series. However, it’s almost two times more powerful than the just discussed model.
Specs
- 2 HP – 212cc OEM engine
- 19-ton splitting force
- 2-second cycle time
- Weighs 200 pounds
- Max log length: 21” Max Diameter: 14”
- Low oil auto shutdown
What I Like About This Product
Being a 19-ton wood splitter, many folks push it over its limits with large, green, or knotted logs that end up getting stuck in the ram. However, if you stay within the recommended log size or just a little over, it works smooth and fast.
Moreover, you only need to place another log behind the stuck one if it ever gets stuck in the wedge.
What I Don’t Like About This Product
Like its smaller 10-ton cousin, it has a narrow wheelbase. This gives it an even higher chance of tipping over since it’s about 50 pounds heavier. Not a problem, if you won’t be moving it around often.
Pros
- Good value
- Handles small and mid-sized seasoned or hardwoods perfectly
- Low oil shutdown
- Easy installation
- Large log cradle to catch split woods
Cons
- Installation requires two persons
- Narrow wheelbase
Takeaway
This 19-ton is one of the best affordable kinetic splitters with over 10 tons splitting force. It’s the right choice for any homeowner looking to cut fairly large logs. However, it’s not the most efficient if you’d be cutting large — 20″ and over — knotted woods most times.
Overall Rating – 4.6/5
4. Powerking 34-Ton Kinetic Log Splitter — Overall Best Kinetic Log Splitter
Although not the most affordable, the Powerking 34-ton splitter is ideal for anyone who means business. It’s 300 RPM (34-ton) flywheel, coupled with a heavy-duty 7HP Kohler engine powers through even green woods in real-time.
Specs
- 7HP Kohler engine – 208cc
- 3-second cycle time
- 8″ wedge
- 300 RPM flywheel (34 tons)
- Weighs 495 pounds
- All-terrain tires and reversible hitch
- Max log diameter: 30″
What I Like About This Product
Now, you already know that this machine is beast. It would slaughter any hard, knotted or twisted wood, easily, and in 3 seconds! (be care with log size though)
But it’s also easy to use. It has a one-handle design that lets you operate faster. Most competitors have a second lever that you have to clamp down on for security, which in turn, compels you to have both hands working on the splitter.
Also, towing this powerhouse comes without problems. It uses a reversible and foldable 2-inch ball coupler that hooks up with any truck or trailer. The tires are also really sturdy enough not to encounter any issues en route.
What I Don’t Like About This Product
Installation instructions aren’t straightforward. On some occasions, some folks received theirs without an instruction manual altogether.
Furthermore, the oil tank isn’t out in the open where you can easily reach it. This makes gauging and filling the oil a bit difficult.
Pros
- Heavy-duty parts
- Powerful split force works well with all wood types
- Durable engine
- Convenient one-hand operation
Cons
- Poor instruction manual
- Fragile tow bar
Takeaway
If you split several cords of wood in season, the PK 34-ton kinetic splitter is assured to make things faster and a lot more fun.
Overall Rating – 4.4/5
What Is A Kinetic Log Splitter?
The functioning of a kinetic log splitter is pretty simple. Twin flywheels spin at an impressive speed that produces enough force split wood almost instantly.
And it only takes the push of a lever. Compared to manual and hydraulic log splitters, the kinetic splitter is The Flash. Kinetic wood splitters work at a blazing average speed of 3 seconds to 1 second.
Are Kinetic Log Splitters Any Good?
Of course, kinetic wood splitters come with a lot of good in a full package. And here some reasons why you’d even pick one over a hydraulic splitter
Blazing Cycle Speed
On many hydraulics, you’ll have to wait for about 12 seconds for the ram to push through a log. Now, that’s fast, but nothing compared to the speed of a kinetic splitter.
Saves the Bucks
With its astonishingly fast cycle speed, you’d think a kinetic splitter would guzzle gas like a hungry goblin.
But the reverse is the case. Its flywheel technology makes it energy efficient. So, you can save a few bucks on gas, which sort of makes up for its high price point compared to hydraulic lines.
You can skip the whole gas thing altogether and opt for an electric-powered flywheel splitter.
Lower Maintenance Needs
Constant maintenance is one less thing to worry about.Unlike hydraulic units, you don’t have to bother about leaky valves, cylinders, hoses, and pumps.
Final Thoughts
No, you are in the know about the best kinetic log splitters for different categories. You also know they are the fastest splitters in the game. And they consume less fuel and need less maintenance than their hydraulic counterparts.
So, you now have your mind made up. You can’t wait to split cords of wood this season. Well, you have a variety of options waiting for you on our list.
Still indecisive?
Then go with our top pick, the Powerking 34-ton flywheel splitter. Its sheer force makes it suitable for almost any homeowner or someone who runs a log/firewood business. Plus, it has a unique one-hand operation that makes it easier to operate and more efficient.
